Hydrogel-based solid dispersion: development of sustained release drug delivery for aceclofenac indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation

Developing aceclofenac hydrogel-based solid dispersions enclosed in two modified gelatin capsules for long-term medication delivery was the aim of this study. Eudragit L 100 and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate were used to create the aceclofenac hydrogel-based solid dispersions at different drug-to-carrier ratios (1:1, 1:2, and 1:3) utilizing the solvent evaporation method. Scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and percentage encapsulation efficiency (EE%) were used to characterize the formulations. In vitro drug release of 10 mg aceclofenac hydrogel-based solid dispersions was assessed using the USP Type I apparatus. Aceclofenac hydrogel-based solid dispersions, pure aceclofenac, and commercial aceclofenac tablets were examined in this study. The entrapment efficiency of solid dispersions based on eudragit was found to be substantially higher than that of those based on hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate (p < 0.05). Both formulations' DSC and SEM studies showed a decrease in crystallinity as well as distinct particle sizes and shapes. Notably, redesigned gelatin capsules containing aceclofenac hydrogel-based solid dispersions showed a noticeably longer drug release profile. All things considered, modified gelatin capsules containing aceclofenac hydrogel-based solid dispersions offer a viable substitute technology for the long-term administration of aceclofenac.